Colon cancer used to be more common in people ages 50 and older. Now, health care providers at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital are seeing a surprising turn—younger adults, some as young as their 30s, diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Rona Silver, gastrointestinal diagnostic lab manager at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital, says this change is alarming. “Colorectal cancer is significantly increasing in younger adults, especially in those ages 15-34.” The American Cancer Society estimates nearly 154,000 new cases of colorectal cancer in 2025, with one in five of those diagnosed in people younger than age 55. Younger age groups have seen about a 2 percent rise each year since the 1990s.
What is causing the increase? Experts aren’t sure, but they suspect modern lifestyle plays a big role. Many young people eat processed meals and red meat, don’t get enough fiber, spend too much time sitting and skip regular exercise. Obesity, smoking and drinking alcohol also increase risk. Genetics and family history matter, too, especially if a close relative was diagnosed under age 50.
In the United States, colorectal cancer is now the No. one cause of cancer death in men younger than age 50, and the second for women, just behind breast cancer. These trends led national guidelines to lower the starting age for routine colon cancer screening from age 50 to 45. However, people with risk factors such as a family history or chronic bowel conditions may start screening earlier.
So, what should you watch out for? Early signs include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, belly pain, weight loss that wasn’t planned, tiredness or anemia. If you have any of these symptoms, especially with a family history, don’t ignore them, seek help from your health care provider.
Colonoscopies remain the gold standard for catching colon cancer early or even preventing it. During a colonoscopy, a provider uses a camera to look at the entire colon and rectum. If any polyps or spots are found, they usually can be removed during the procedure. “A colonoscopy lets the doctor see the entire lining under high definition and can catch even minor changes. The sooner we catch colon cancer, the more likely it is curable,” Silver explained. While at-home stool tests are available, they don’t provide same complete view a colonoscopy would.
Many people are fearful of the procedure, but Silver wants everyone to know it’s easier than it seems. A colonoscopy usually takes about 20-30 minutes. “Our patients just sleep through it. They’re so comfortable that they wake up in recovery and say ‘That’s it? I’m done?’” After the procedure, patients rest in recovery for about 30-45 minutes until the sedative wears off. Mild gas, bloating or a little cramping sometimes occurs, but usually these symptoms go away within a few hours. Insurance usually covers routine colonoscopies, but prior authorization may need to be obtained. Always ask your provider for the best screening approach for you.
Preventing colon cancer is possible, especially when it is caught early. Staying active, eating fiber-rich foods, limiting red meat and processed foods, avoiding cigarettes and keeping a healthy weight all support colon health. Most importantly, get screened, especially if you notice changes or have a family history.
For more information or to schedule a screening, call Prisma Health Gastroenterology at 865-980-5060.
